The aim is to understand the fundamental advantages and limitations of molecular communications in complex environments and exploit its potential. Despite the abundant use of molecular signalling in nature, we humans lack knowledge in this area and as such have not exploited its potential. Molecular communications has gained significant research attention in recent years, providing an alternative and attractive way to communicate at small-scales, as well as in challenging propagation environments. Its applications include targeted drug delivery and surgery scenarios as well as other electromagnetically hostile environments. In the foreseeable future the demand for small devices that can coordinate and communicate with each other to complete a precision task will grow.

In nano-medicine alone, the market for targeted drug-delivery is estimated to be over $520 billion by 2019 with a 16% CAGR. This proposal will focus on understanding the performance of molecular communications in complex diffusion environments that are relevant to a number of envisaged application scenarios. A combination of theory, simulation, and experimentation methodologies will be used to give confidence to the findings.

This funding is from the United States Air Force (USAF) and is aimed at fundamental low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) research.

Eligibility: Candidates must have a 1st or 2.1 honours degree or equivalent with a background in applied mathematics, physics, and physical biology. Applicants with a background in: information theory, fluid dynamics, or SPDEs are deemed advantageous.

Funding: The studentship covers the full tuition fees and standard stipend currently £14,296.

How to apply:

To apply for this post you must fully complete the online application form and quote scholarship reference WG17

As soon as you have a University ID number you will be invited to upload your degree certificate, transcripts and a personal statement that explains your specific research interests and why you should be considered for this award.